Solar Panel Road Surface

Revolutionary projects have successfully launched in France at the end of last year. They inaugurated the first kilometer of smart road made of Wattway solar panels. This marks just the initial phase of a global program aiming to construct over 1000 kilometers of solar roads.

About the Project:

The initial road segment was laid in the Normandy town of Tourouvre-au-Perche. The coverage area spans 2800 square meters. Although currently just a single lane, even this setup is projected by creators to generate up to 280 megawatt-hours per year.

Technical Features

The surface comprises special polycrystalline silicon panels embedded in a base of unique polymers and resins. These materials are nearly transparent and allow sufficient sunlight penetration. Despite being only a couple of millimeters thick, this cover easily lays over existing roads. The durability of such roads matches traditional concrete or asphalt variants and withstands all weather conditions.

Despite its advantages, specialists note some drawbacks to this concept. Primary concerns include uncertainties about the power output and cost-effectiveness of such roads. The issue of surface pollution and inefficiency in case of heavy debris accumulation also remains unresolved.

Perspectives:

Current projections estimate around 2000 vehicles will traverse the road daily. The generated electricity will suffice to illuminate the city's streets. In the future, the French government plans to invest approximately 5 million euros to develop another 1000 kilometers of solar roads over the next 5 years.

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